The candidates were asked, “What are your plans to develop Plattsburgh’s waterfront, both downtown and in other parts of the city?"

Republican candidate Jim Calnon said the city is moving in the right direction in its development of the waterfront.

“I’m a big fan of having small success, than having large failure,” said Calnon.

He also said the city should continue to work with the strategic tourism committee to improve the city beach.

“I think that we’ve taken the first step by starting to negotiate for about 108 feet of waterfront with NavTours at this point,” said Calnon.

Democratic candidate Mark Tiffer said that the key to revitalizing the downtown area is to, first, understand government’s role in the community.

“We are no long the commercial heart of Clinton County, but we are the cultural and arts heart of Clinton County. Once we understand what role we play, then we need to emphasize and enhance those things,” said Tiffer.

Tiffer said that the Strand Theater and the arts corridor are some of the cultural icons in town that should be worked on in addition to developing the waterfront.

Tiffer would also like to build a convention center on the waterfront as a means to draw more professionals and tourists to the area.

Plattsburgh renewal candidate Chirs Rosenquest said there are several areas that he would like to see developed. As mayor he would approach the development opportunities as connected projects.

“They’re not all separate. The city of Plattsburgh’s waterfront has one big thing, but then we have a great opportunity to attract investors, large scale investors and also work with local partners,” said Rosenquest.

As mayor, Rosenquest said he would use other successful city marinas in different parts of the country as a model. He would also explore public-private partnerships and possible grant money.